Compact portable tree stand

Abstract

A tree stand for use in observing and hunting game is provided. The stand forms an elevated platform and means for connecting the stand to a tree. In one aspect of the invention, the seat and footrest can be folded up for ease of transportation. In another aspect, the ladder assembly can be dissassembled for ease of transportation. In yet another aspect of the invention, the dissassembled ladder sections of the ladder assembly can be mated with a plurality of members on the platform and tied to the platform for secure transportation and storage.

Having described the invention, I claim: 
     
       1. A hunting stand for attachment to a tree, post, or the like to support a hunter or wildlife observer in an elevated position, the stand comprising: a horizontally extending platform for supporting a person;   a plurality of ladder sections having end mating members whereby said ladder sections can be releasably connected to each other in end to end relationship;   at least one support mating member connected to said platform whereby at least one said end mating members of said ladder sections can be releasably connected to said platform for partially supporting said platform in an elevated position against a tree, post or the like;   a plurality of storage mating members connected to said platform for releasably connecting said end mating members of said ladder sections to said storage mating members whereby said ladder sections are retained adjacent said platform for compact transportation and storage;   a V-shaped spiked bar connected to said platform, said V-shaped spike bar having a plurality of teeth for engaging said platform to the tree;   at least one locking arm, said locking arm having at least one spike thereon, one end of said locking arm pivotally coupled to said platform for pivoting said locking arm into releasable engagement with the tree, post or the like;   a roping dowel mounted on said platform on the side opposed said one side; and   a fastening means connected to said locking arm such that when said fastening means is drawn over said roping dowel, said locking arm is pulled toward said roping dowel into engagement with the tree, post, or the like and said spike on said locking arm is opposed to at least one of said teeth on said V-shaped spike bar to provide opposed locking forces on the tree, post, or the like.   
     
     
       2. The hunting stand of claim 1 additionally comprising a pair of horizontally extending sockets mounted on either side of the other end of said platform and a gun rest removably supported from said sockets. 
     
     
       3. The hunting stand of claim 1 wherein said ladder sections have at least one pole portion formed from tubing with a rectangular cross-section. 
     
     
       4. The hunting stand of claim 3 wherein said end mating members of said ladder sections formed and said platform comprise pin and socket couplings, and said support and storage mating members connected to said platform comprise pin and socket couplings. 
     
     
       5. The hunting stand of claim 3 wherein said pole portion has a plurality of steps extending from either side thereof. 
     
     
       6. The hunting stand of claim 1 wherein said fastening means comprises a flexible element such as a rope or cable.